I led a relatively adventurous life, even before I joined the Army. I faced many of the same challenges that most people encounter on a daily basis. When I enlisted and deployed overseas to fight the global war on terror, I knew my odds of surviving depended on my preparedness, my fellow soldiers, and a lot of luck.

I had a very bad day at work shortly after returning home to Fort Hood from my second deployment. When I least expected it, in the safety and security of a military base on American soil, I was shot four times, including a direct blow to my head. In an instant, my lifelong good health and carefree lifestyle was history. Ironically, I had always wanted to be a noteworthy part of history, and for my sins, I got exactly what I wanted.

I was the most critically wounded survivor of the Fort Hood terrorist massacre. My daily challenges are incomprehensible to those who have never experienced such a devastating, life-changing tragedy.

After several painful, yet important years of recovery in hospital environments, thousands of supporters have urged me to write this book and share the details of my ordeal. In this book, I share stories from my time in the US First Cavalry during the most important decade of the 21st century. I also feel honored to have the opportunity to memorialize the 13 victims who perished at Fort Hood on November 5th, 2009, as well as my brothers in arms who lost their lives overseas.

Make no mistake, I’m not looking for sympathy, nor am I crying the blues. I’m quite grateful to be alive and have the opportunity to find some good in this very bad situation. My goal is to dedicate my life to helping others overcome their PTSD from traumatic experiences. This book is the tool which will help me accomplish that task. If my story empowers just one person to overcome their challenges and live a better life, then this soldier has accomplished his mission.